| So many kids these days are on special diets. | | | | has probably already had at his own birthday parties. |
| Whether they're restricted because of a peanut | | | | This will take some of the pressure off of the host |
| allergy, they are lactose intolerant, or they need to | | | | because they won't have to worry about accidentally |
| eat gluten-free foods, its tough making sure they | | | | preparing some gluten-free recipe improperly, and |
| stay away from the foods that aren't good for | | | | making your son sick. It will also free them up to |
| them. Kids party planning is especially hard because | | | | worry about the food for the majority of the kids at |
| there will always be a mix of kids on different diets. | | | | the party. |
| If your child is the one having the party, it's easier | | | | Another important thing will be making sure there |
| for you to control what is made, and what eventually | | | | isn't any cross-contamination of typical foods with |
| ends up in his stomach. But what do you do when | | | | your son's foods. Cleaning hands and utensils |
| your gluten-free child is invited to a party, and it's | | | | between handling typical foods and gluten-free foods |
| important that he not partake in any of the delicious | | | | is necessary, and the host should know this. One |
| treats that will be offered? | | | | way to ensure this is done is to offer to help at the |
| The first thing you need to do is talk to the parents | | | | party. Most parents will not hesitate to have an extra |
| of the child having the party. Because restricted diets | | | | set of hands assisting at the party, especially when |
| are a lot more common now than they used to be, | | | | there is a child with special dietary needs. |
| I'm sure the parent won't look at you like you're an | | | | Another way to have your child avoid the gluten-filled |
| alien from another planet. Explain to them why your | | | | foods at the party is to get him nice and full before |
| child is on a gluten-free diet, and the potential harm it | | | | you send him to it. He'll be less tempted by the food |
| could do to them. | | | | that's bad for him if his belly is filled with food that is |
| During your discussion, find out what type of foods | | | | good for him. |
| they will be serving at the party. Even though more | | | | Kids party planning can be tough enough when you're |
| people are becoming aware of gluten-free diets, they | | | | creating an event that has typically prepared foods. |
| often don't know what foods contain gluten. When | | | | It can be a lot tougher when you have to keep |
| they tell you what they are planning for the party, | | | | special diet needs in mind. When sending him to a |
| let them know which foods contain gluten. | | | | party where you don't have control over the food |
| Offer to bring the gluten-free alternatives for your | | | | being served, just make sure everyone involved |
| son. As you probably already know, there are | | | | knows about his diet needs. But don't make that the |
| fabulous gluten-free recipes available that your child | | | | focus of the party. The focus should be fun. |